Public outcry forces rethink on hike in circle rates

Facing strong criticism from almost every section of society, after a massive hike in circle rates, Faridabad district administration said on Thursday that revised circle rates were likely to be announced soon. Prabhu Razdan reports.

Facing strong criticism from almost every section of society, after a massive hike in circle rates, Faridabad district administration said on Thursday that revised circle rates were likely to be announced soon.

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“The circle rates are being decreased and orders in this connection will most probably be signed by Thursday night,” Praveen Kumar, deputy commissioner, Faridabad said.

“The decision to review circle rates was taken a few days ago, after the intervention of chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda,” he added.

Sources said the district administration came under pressure from the public, especially resident welfare associations (RWAs) of Faridabad, some political parties and property dealers who wanted withdrawal of the hike in circle rates.

Over a fortnight ago, the district administration hiked circle rates by about two to seven times in Faridabad, evoking strong protests.

The Confederation of RWAs, Faridabad, led by secretary general AS Gulati, the Property Dealers’ Associations, led by president Baljeet Singh and some political parties — like BJP and Indian National Lok Dal — had strongly opposed the massive hike.

“The massive hike in circle rates will make life hell for the people of Faridabad and for those who want to work here,” said Gulati.

“The increase means residents of Faridabad will have to shell out more for house tax, as it is calculated on the basis of circle rates,” Gulati added. “The irrational hike has dashed the hopes of those planning to make Faridabad their home.”